SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — The Coast Guard suspended the search for additional possible survivors of a capsized migrant boat just off the coast of Camuy, Puerto Rico, Thursday evening.
So far, response agencies recovered two deceased migrants from the water and rescued 30 survivors, who remain in federal custody.
“We pray for the families of the deceased and of those whose fate remains unknown,” said Capt. José E. Díaz, Coast Guard Sector San Juan commander. “We remind people that the dangers of unlawful irregular maritime migration voyages are always present. I extend my thanks and appreciation to all Coast Guard, partner agency responders and the Good Samaritans who were instrumental in saving lives and preventing further loss of life in this case.”
Coast Guard watchstanders in Sector San Juan were contacted by Border Patrol agents at approximately 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, who relayed a communication from Puerto Rico Police Joint Forces of Rapid Action reporting a migrant vessel was approaching the coast of Camuy, Puerto Rico. Shortly thereafter, watchstanders were notified the migrant vessel capsized in the breaking surf, approximately 300 yards from shore, throwing the people into the water.
Survivors reported that there were between 30 to 50 people aboard the capsized vessel.
Coast Guard and partner agencies involved in the search:
- Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk helicopters from Air Station Borinquen
- Coast Guard Donald Horsley
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection - Border Patrol
- Puerto Rico Police Joint Forces of Rapid Action
- Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau,
- Quebradillas and other municipal emergency management
- Emergency Medical Services
- Civil Air Patrol
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